IFFS 2018 ends with positive response

The International Furniture Fair Singapore 2018 (IFFS 2018) concluded yet another successful edition from March 8 to 11 at the Singapore EXPO. Along with the co-located shows, 35th ASEAN Furniture Show (AFS) and NOOK Asia 2018, IFFS 2018 attracted over 19,196 trade professionals from 89 countries representing the furniture, furnishing, and interior design industries.

A premier sourcing platform in Asia, the fair featured a comprehensive portfolio of 374 exhibiting companies from 26 countries, which put up an inspirational showcase of design-rich and innovative pieces.

The Singapore government recognised IFFS’ continuing efforts at pushing Asian and international furniture trade. Speaking at the IFFS 2018 Opening Ceremony, guest-of-honour Mr S. Iswaran, Minister for Trade and Industry, said, “IFFS has become Asia’s premier design-led sourcing platform, with a comprehensive and diverse range of furniture and furnishing designs from all around the world.” He continued, “With Singapore’s thriving innovation ecosystem, growing design scene, and strong linkages to the region, I am confident that the SFIC will continue its good work to support the development of the furniture industry.”

Mr Ernie Koh, Chairman of IFFS Pte Ltd, shared, “The trade exhibitions scene and exhibitors’ needs are always evolving, and we need to keep up with the times by embracing change. The challenge is in finding the right balance between staying ahead, while still meeting our exhibitors’ needs. As the show continues to evolve, we will progressively reinvent ourselves to cater to the needs of our audiences.”

The fair’s focus on design was demonstrated through its feature areas, displays, and knowledge-sharing seminars, and visitors looking for content-rich features were treated to a variety of inspiring, engaging, and immersive showcases that sparked conversations across the show floor.

Popular feature areas captured visitors’ attention with their classy and sleek displays. These include the record-breaking 15 Country Pavilions, which featured the debut of four new pavilions from France, Japan, Portugal, and Turkey; The Italian New Renaissance, curated by Italian design icon, Giulio Cappellini; and CARTE BLANCHE, presented in collaboration with TANKE.LONDON/, curated by Chantal Hamaide and directed by ARRO Studio. The Design STARS Showcase, highlighting works by 10 global design talents, also drew in the crowds.

In particular, visitors were treated to nine complimentary Design × Business Seminars, where design experts, architects, and creators gathered together to discuss and share their furniture industry experiences. Local Product Designer David Oei, who attended the seminar session featuring Giulio Cappellini and Chantal Hamaide in conversation, concluded, “I thought it was very informative. As a student-designer, I valued their candid sharing as it gave me greater insight to the professional world. I particularly appreciated Giulio’s reminder to designers to be mindful of cultural restrictions, and to respect the local culture in order to remain relevant.”

Industry professionals left the fair with satisfaction about the quality of connections and conversations exchanged during the event. Visiting buyers also echoed positive sentiments.

“We confirmed orders with a supplier from Turkey and another from Indonesia within the first 2 hours of the show, so I’d say that we have been successful so far,” explained Marion Horgan, Owner of retailer HORGANS. “We like the high-end, international offerings here, and find many exhibitors who offer a good combination of quality and price.”